VSU Welcomes Small Farmers to Norfolk for “Rooted and Rising” Conference
The Virginia State University (VSU) College of Agriculture Small Farm Conference, in collaboration with 4-H Beyond Ready, will return to Norfolk, Virginia, October 15–16 for two days of agriculture education, business strategies, applied research, and connections across Virginia’s farming community. Hosted by the Small Farm Outreach Program, part of Virginia Cooperative Extension at VSU, this annual conference is the largest SFOP event of the year and advances the mission to educate and empower small farmers and ranchers to own, operate, and sustain farms and ranches independently and successfully.
This year’s theme, “Rooted and Rising,” reflects the conference’s focus on strengthening small farm operations while exploring new opportunities in agriculture. The two-day event will feature educational presentations, discussions, networking opportunities, farm and facility tours, and awards. Vendors and sponsors will also be on site to share products, services, and resources for agricultural businesses. A special performance by the VSU Concert Choir will round out the conference program. The conference will open with bus tours featuring urban and rural farms in the Tidewater area, giving attendees a chance to see a range of agricultural operations and learn firsthand from producers who understand and are navigating the current challenges facing Virginia farmers and ranchers.
Educational sessions will cover topics relevant to today’s small farmers and ranchers, including marketing, production, finance, food safety, and long-term planning. Attendees can also learn about current research from scientists at VSU’s Agricultural Research Station. “Some of the highlights you can expect will be parasite control, funding sources, specialty mushrooms, and legacy planning,” says SFOP Director William Crutchfield. “We’re going to talk about diversified production from our 43560 project here at VSU’s Randolph Farm, and looking at agriculture finance and asset protection.” The conference will also honor the winners of this year’s Farmer of the Year, Small Farm Agent of the Year, and STAR of the Year awards.
Registration is $100 per person and includes the bus tour, educational and networking sessions, presentations, awards, and meals listed on the conference agenda. Attendees are responsible for overnight accommodations and meals not included in the agenda. Whether you are looking to strengthen your operation, explore new production opportunities, improve your marketing strategy, or connect with others in agriculture, the conference offers a place to learn, exchange ideas, and build professional connections.
Join VSU and 4-H Beyond Ready for the 2026 Small Farm Conference, “Rooted and Rising,” October 15–16 in Norfolk, Virginia.
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